Jolie Holland's first album recorded in an actual studio is a sumptuous affair that extends her indie country and folk sound further into the realms of old-school jazz and country blues. But this is no quaint revivalism; ye olde sounds are made modern by smart lyrics that reference feminist writer/adventurer Isabelle Eberhardt on the whimsical "Old Fashion Morphine," or that speak of "a couple of food stamps and a caffeine buzz" on "Poor Girl." The arrangements are subtle and sophisticated, showing more breadth than those on her debut, Catalpa, with fewer instruments in the way of her superlative voice. Her singing has such soul and energy that she's as often compared to Chan Marshall and Karen Dalton as she is to Billie Holiday. Her update of the old Irish folk song "Tom of Bedlam" is brilliant, just vocals with roiling jazz drums behind it. It's difficult to think of a more compelling sophomore record by a young singer-songwriter, Norah included. --Mike McGonigal
